WHEN I was sent to Dudley Zoo to find out what it is like to be a zoo keeper, I didn't know what to expect.

Being an animal lover myself, I was really excited about getting close to the animals - but I didn't know how hands-on I would actually be allowed to be.

I was told to go sensibly dressed, so in my wellies, waterproof jacket and old clothes I was met at the front gate by my zoo keeper guide for the day, Jay.

He worked with the hooved animals and I was immediately struck by his enthusiasm for his job.

He was fascinating to listen to, full of information and he taught me a great deal about many of the animals in the zoo.

I was first taken to hand feed the red pandas, and then I met the sea lions during their feeding time.

As the crowd gathered to hear a keeper talk about the animals, I was taken pool-side to feed them fish.

Once inside I was met by the biggest sea-lion bull I have ever seen, who raced out of the pool onto the feeding platform as soon as he saw us arrive with his lunch.

To be so close to this giant animal was amazing, but I was slightly relieved to climb out of the enclosure!

Next I fed the penguins, and then I met the lemurs, who were really inquisitive animals and quickly made friends with the toggles on my coat!

I was then taken to meet the family of tapirs- animals which I was assured were friendly and loved attention.

However, once I had received a nip on my hand, a rip on my coat and a chunk out of my wellies, I didn't really agree!

But at least I was getting stuck in and I was able to get a real hands-on approach to these animals.

The day flew by, but in the short time I was there I saw first-hand how the keepers genuinely care for their animals, and their affections shone through on the day.

This experience was fascinating and all the keepers I met provided a really great behind the scenes' look at zoo life.

For £135 anyone can discover this unique and thoroughly entertaining day out.

The zoo raised £40,000 through the scheme last year, with all the money being put back into conservation and animal projects.

For more information call Dudley Zoo on 01384 215313.

For exclusive video footage of Rachel working as a keeper at Dudley Zoo visit www.stourbridgenews.co.uk.